Reserves match report by Stewart Shaw

At last the weather seemed more favourable to those overseas players and to emphasise how keen they all were, we had nearly all players changed and ready at least 20 mins before the start of the game. After the usual sitting-on-shoulders-to-set-the-nets and running-out-of-tape we were set for the start of the game. Hang on, there was something missing, Oh yeah, a Ref. Roselands agreed to a Ref and as there was only one Rovers player who wasn't going to play, I volunteered quickly for one half, so that we could get the game going. Personally, I think that I need to do a referees course, as within the first few minutes my decision making was questioned a number of times. I wont go into details, however, after 17 mins, the official Referee turned up and the whistle was quickly handed over. Scoreline at the Referee change - 1-0 to Roselands.

With a 1-0 lead, Roselands thought they might be a chance and with Balmain's heads slightly down and talk on the field at a minimum, Rovers chances were few and far between. However, with patience and some hard work in the middle of the park, it was soon level at 1-1 and then 2-1 before the break. Soon into the second half Steve Adams went down near the edge of the pitch with what some thought might be a broken leg, Luckily it wasn't as bad as first thought and he managed (with help) to limp his way off the park and round to the bench. At this stage it looks like cruciate ligament damage. All the best for a speedy recovery, Steve.

Fired up by the loss of their Captain, Rovers started to completely dominate Roselands and we were placing more and more pressure on the defence. Goals were coming and Roselands quickly starting losing control of the football and their heads. In the end the final scoreline was deserved. 8-1.

Goals: Rob Liney (4), Rich Briscoe (2), Tony Unsworth, own goal
Pele Points: 2 - Mike Stubbs, 1 - Steve Adams, Rob Liney, Matt Linton, Ricky Onsman

Firsts match report by Stewart Shaw

Boosted by a dominant win by the Reserves, the fact that we had a Referee and the weather, the First Grade squad were ready and waiting for the Roselands squad by the time the whistle was blown. With some Firsts players getting a warm up in the Reserve Grade the confidence levels were high. A change in formation led to Martyn and Andy McLeod up front and a possibility of a different style of football. It was a chance to try and see some more players step up to the mark and watch the football being played.

I don't know whether it was the pitch, the formation or the Roselands defence but it took Rovers some time to dominate the match. There was no real doubt that they would, and when they did from the sideline it looked like some of the best football played this year: possession, movement and chances that should (upon reflection) have been taken. There were some great saves by the stand-in keeper Marshall and luckily no injuries. However, the final scoreline really flatters the Roselands squad. 2-0.

Goals: Steve Ashcroft (2)
Pele Points: 2 - Marshall Moir, Martyn Farnworth, 1 - Pete Boyle, Andy McLeod

Match report by Dale Humphries

Going into this game, Balmain remained unbeaten and alone at the top of the table. Unfortunately our preparation was undermined by the unavailability of four important personnel. However the team rallied together and fought hard despite the unfamiliarity of some positions they were selected to play in. The first twenty minutes Strathfield hit us hard, and with Balmain struggling to hold our shape in any form, we found ourselves down 0-2 after about fifteen minutes. I was still confident we could rally hard and pull it back, such is the depth of our squad, however it was going to be a great test of character.

We did have plenty of chances in the first half, particularly from set pieces - a great strength of this side. Roberto came closest to scoring after about 30 minutes when he silkily weaved his way into the 6 yard box only to have his shot saved at the near post by the keeper. Right on half-time, Roberto showed his class as he worked his magic on the edge of the 18 yard box. He made the Strathfield defenders look like mannequins, beating several players before burying his shot past the keeper. Just the tonic we needed.

At half-time we regrouped, made several positional changes and talked about character and fighting hard as a team. We didn't disappoint. Halfway through the second stanza we were awarded a penalty after a Strathfield defender tried to clear the ball off his own line with his hand. Simon did the honours, we were back in the game at 2-2, and knew we were a good chance.

Gabe had another sterling performance in midfield and never stopped working and kept everybody going. Roberto down the left flank was looking hungry and dangerous every time he got the ball. Simon had another strong game up front and scored a great match winner with 15 minutes to play when he was allowed to turn and shoot inside the six yard box. Following the third goal we had more chances which we were unable to convert. With five minutes to play Morgan became match winner/saver by making a great save to secure the points for Balmain. Full credit to a top bunch of blokes for digging deep and showing not only can we play football but we have character and can scrap out a win when needed! 3-2.

Goals: Simon Goodman (2),Roberto Arocha
Pele Points: 3 - Roberto Arocha, 2 - Gabe Cataldo, 1 - Morgan Bowling